Vanderleest Departs for North Carolina

Longtime MAA board member Dirk Vanderleest departed Mississippi in August to become Aviation Director for the city of Concord, NC. He now oversees operations and development at Concord Regional Airport.

“We welcome Dirk to the city’s management team,” said City Manager Brian Hiatt. “We believe his experience with over 30 years in airport leadership and business development will be vital to maintaining and growing general aviation and commercial services. Concord Regional Airport is a key economic cog for this region, and Dirk’s administrative and customer service skills will support its continued success.”

Vanderleest had worked with Waggoner Engineering following his 2014 retirement as CEO of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority. With his new position he leads one of the busiest airports in the Carolinas. Many of its operations are related to the motorsports industry, as most NASCAR related teams are located in the Charlotte, NC, region, and several have facilities near the airport. In addition to its strong general aviation focus, Concord Regional Airport also offers scheduled passenger service via Allegiant Airlines.

“It’s a real honor and privilege to have been chosen as the City of Concord’s Aviation Director,” said Vanderleest. “Though Concord Regional Airport has already grown successfully in the corporate and general aviation markets, I am excited to partner with others to take it to the next level.”

MAA congratulates Concord on a wise selection. We are grateful for Dirk’s many years of service to aviation in Mississippi and wish Dirk and Anne the very best!